JLRB Press is a small-run imprint that specia­lizes in poetry, with a strong emphasis on queer and neuro­divergent voices and emerg­ing writers.

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Small But Mighty

September 18, 2023

We had a booth at the 2023 Small Press Fest…and it went swimmingly!

Founder, Publisher, and Chief Editor Michael G. Khmelnitsky and Volunteer James Chumsa at the JLRB Press Booth at 2023 Small Press Fest
Left to right: Founder, Publisher, and Chief Editor Michael G. Khmelnitsky and Volunteer James Chumsa

On September 6, Dani Neira reached out to us about co­ming to Small Press Fest in Victoria. We had ten days to get ready. 🫢

We sprang into action and began to prepare. On Septem­ber 16, our volunteer James Chumsa and Founder, Publi­sher, and Chief Editor Michael G. Khmelnitsky made the drive to Victoria and set up in the lovely Open Space (our booth was neighbours with that of the vaunted Malahat Review!)

Over the next few hours, we spoke to droves of visitors (many of them fellow queer and neuro­divergent folks 🌈♾️💖), made friends with other exhibitors, and explored their publications and papercraft. We also took in an in­sight-filled panel discussion on publishing and art writing that featured Casey Wei, Kim Dhillon, and Kara Stanton (with Dani as moderator). Finally, we had a surprise sushi dinner during the ReIssue Publication launch party before heading back up to Nanaimo. What a day! 😅

Our many thanks go to Dani and all the other organizers—we'll definitely see you next year! 🙏

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